Toy Power Source: Spring-Integrated Figure Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toys powered by rubber or metal springs often detract from the appearance and functionality, as the power sources are not aesthetically integrated and lack versatility in motion generation.
Innovation Solution
A toy power source featuring a figure with metal or plastic substitute springs that can be distorted to generate power, integrated into limbs, torso, or other members, allowing for various forms of motion and interchangeable anchoring systems to minimize permanent distortion and enhance functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If rubber or metal springs are used as power sources in conventional toys, then the toys can generate motion, but the power sources detract from the appearance and are not aesthetically integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The spring power source is merged with the figure's limb members, making the power source indistinguishable from the figure itself. The spring forms the structural core of the limb, eliminating the need for separate visible power source components and achieving aesthetic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member serves multiple functions: it provides the power generation capability, forms the structural framework of the limb, and contributes to the aesthetic appearance as part of the figure's design. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the power source an integral aesthetic element.
2Power
If rubber bands are used to power toys, then motion can be generated, but the rubber power source does not play any significant part in the appearance and normally detracts from it
Solution Approach 1:
The material parameter is changed from rubber to metal or plastics substitute spring, which allows the power source to maintain aesthetic appearance while generating motion. The spring's metallic or plastic construction enables it to function as both a power source and an aesthetic element.
3Reliability
If metal springs are used to power toys, then reliable motion can be generated, but the springs lack versatility in motion generation compared to rubber
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system is made dynamic by allowing different degrees of distortion (stretching, twisting, bending) and by making the spring constant adjustable through selection of different springs. This enables the reliable metal spring to adapt to various motion generation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The versatility is achieved by changing parameters such as the spring constant, initial tension, and allowable distortion range. By selecting springs with different parameters, the system can generate various types of motion while maintaining the reliability of metal springs.
4Length of moving object
If the spring is extended to three times its rest length, then the figure can achieve maximum stretch, but the possibility of permanent distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
A limitation member is introduced to prevent the spring from being extended beyond a safe threshold. This member acts as a protective constraint that allows full utilization of the spring's power potential while preventing permanent distortion, thus cushioning against reliability issues beforehand.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables toys to have a visually integrated power source that can generate motion through stretching, twisting, or winding, providing efficient and versatile power for different toy mechanisms while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
a figure having at least one member comprising a spring formed of metal or a plastics substitute, the at least one member being capable of being distorted so that its return to a natural state generates power
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 2d~2f
AI summary
A toy power source comprising a figure such as a mannequin having at least one member comprising a metal spring, the member rubber being capable of being distorted so that its return to a natural configuration generates power. The figure is mountable in a toy constructed to be driven by the return of the figure to its natural configuration.